With only three days until Christmas I need to get my act together and give you a couple more great ideas you can pull together before you have that house full of crazy people you call family. 😉 Here is one of my absolute favorites!  See my faux garland on the fritz and steal this idea below:

 

 

 

So, what’s exactly going on here?  What I’ve done is taken three large fake branches of pine needles and deconstructed them.  I then took each individual branch and weaved them in between the candles and placed one to two pine cones in each section.  What’s great is that these branches are accessible to you all, now!  I purchased these at Joanna Gaine’s Magnolia Market Shop.  {The very own host of Fixer Upper.}  Click here to see exactly what they look like and buy for your home.  This is my favorite part… Are you ready? These were originally $14 now on sale for $3.50!  They are gorgeous quality and don’t look faux; these branches truly look real and are almost 4 feet tall.  Multiply that out against the next 10 years or more you plan to use these and you’ve paid pennies for them.  Now, if you’re not up for the shipping and need them ASAP I would recommend Michael’s or Hobby Lobby.  Either one of these stores will likely have what you’re looking for to copy this look.  Another good idea, deconstruct an old wreath that you’re not so crazy about these days.  I bet you have something like this marinating in an old box downstairs or in the attic and you don’t even know it! Think repurpose people… 🙂 And if you want the real deal, head down to your local tree stand and kindly ask for some left over branches and scraps to achieve the authentic look you want. 

That’s all for today.  But let me leave you with one more pic just because I love this look that much. ❤

 

 

MERRY CHRISTMAS FRIENDS!!

WELCOME YOUR LOVED ONES HOME. 

Peace & Love, Miss

 

Have you ever wondered why we celebrate Christmas on December 25th?  What’s the reasoning that He chose to bring new life into the world when everything around us is dead? As I ponder the answer to this question I feel at peace as to the belief that inevitably leads me to my conclusion.  His gift of greatness to this world was purely intentional and His timing was perfect. In the middle of darkness, there was light.  And within this light is everlasting life.  Which brings me to my next design inspiration. In this design, I’ve taken the names of all of those that have either been taken to Heaven or have been Heaven sent in this past year.

In the past 365 days, I’ve been to more funerals and visitations than I can count on one hand.  On the other hand, we’ve had more babies bless our lives than ever before.  And the one thing these two extremes have in common – these sweet souls have found new life.  Which is why I’ve created a tree in our home called Our Angel Tree.  This tree not only reflects the light these very special people have brought to our life; but also is a special tribute of the time they shared with us.  Young or old, my heart has been touched by each and every one of them.  And one thing reigns true, whether these faces have just graced our lives for the very first time or have left our lives too soon, we can’t imagine life without you.

 

 

 

 

Please forgive me, I didn’t share each and every one of them with you.   One reason, two of these tags have the names of children that are due anyday; and I love these women enough to keep my mouth shut.  But more importantly, quickly scrolling trough each and every one of these names just to get to the bottom of this design story doesn’t do their life one bit of justice.  To the family of these loved ones.  We still remember those that you loved so much… We hear you.  And more importantly, God hears you.  You are loved.  We have not forgotten the laughs, tears and stories that made their life unforgettable.  It’s just hard to put into words the right thing to say when we see you.  Forgive us, because sometimes our hearts just can’t commnicate with our mouths when we hear your voice on the phone.  Just know this, thier lives will always live on in our heart; and that’s the one place they occupied from the very beginning.

May you all feel His peace, love and everylasting joy this Christmas Season.

Love you all,

Melissa

 

From eclectic to sophisticated, dressing your Christmas tree is just another way to express your design style at home.  And I’m guessing through the years, this style has changed just a bit in that little place you call your own.  Because this is the seventh year I’ve had the luxury of “decking my own halls” I’d like to share a few things with you I’ve learned along the way.  But first let me share a picture with you, my very own vision come true.

 

In my world, it all starts with a vision.  What’s great about this amazingly simple design idea is that the journey is just as great as the destination.  Simply follow these steps below and you’ll see.

1. Have a Vision & Seize a Shopportunity.  I always knew I wanted a BIG tree…. Until I discovered the price tag.  Do you know how much a 10 foot tree is?? Let’s just say it’s a few benjamins over what I was about to pay.  So, when my husband and I discovered Gerdt Furniture Store was going out of business, I thought this is the moment where your vision meets opportunity.  Gerdt celebrates Christmas right? And, they no longer would need a 10 foot Christmas tree… So that’s when we bought theirs for $25.  You got that right.  Talk about a deal of a century.  Rule number one, think outside the box.

2. Let Your Bargains Multiply.  I’ve always loved champagne taste with my beer budget.  This is why I knew to create this vision it would take a little time and patience on my part.  This may sound crazy but I’m the first one to open the doors at Target on December 26th.  You get the best selection at the best price.  I shop for everything from coordinating ornaments in bulk, to wrapping paper that compliments one another, gift tags, tree lights and even generic gift bags that I can use for those random gifts I like to surprise my special friends with year round.  They literally have everything I need for next year at the best price.   You may call it crazy… But when I tell you I designed this Christmas tree for under $250, tree included, you’ll be lining up next year right along with me. 😉

3. Mix the Biggins with the Littles. What exactly does this mean?  My philosophy has always been layering pieces to create a beautiful look.  One trick I like to do is to mix one long strand of big lights with four to five strands of small ones.  First put your small lights on the tree as you normally would and then start from the top to the bottom and wrap the tree in larger lights. But, wrap them tightly.  As in, keep them as close to the trunk as possible to draw interest and depth to your tree.  That way your don’t have any big bulky bulbs hanging on the end of your limbs that look messy.  When you do this, your tree will naturally glow from the inside out.

4. Layer the Silver & Gold. I love the ornaments that are covered in silver and gold glitter that look like leaves and branches.  Do you know what I’m talking about?  If you do, good.  If not, see below.  When you find them on sale grab at least 30.  You’re going to use these to stick in your tree branches upright.  And when you place them into your tree, try to place them next to a big bulb so that it reflects the beautiful light in a multitude of directions.  This will essentially create the depth you are after and the beautiful layering effect you see so often in department stores.  It’s the link between the lights and the ornaments that pulls it all together. 

5. Find Your Style.  This is where it gets fun.  Find a theme and go with it.  Because I love a look that’s timeless I know glass, silver and gold will never go out of style.  That’s just me.  You can totally go with a playful theme and do teal bulbs with feathers, crimson red and gold ribbon,  or burlap and paisley prints… Find whatever reflects your style and run with it.  Because our tree is so tall, I went with ornaments that draw your sight line vertically.  So, on our tree you’ll see a lot of glass icecycles, tall faux copper structures, long spiral globes and slender acorns.  This draws your visual interest vertically which then flows throughout the tree.  There’s just one rule here… Whatever you do, be creative and have fun!

 

 

May these little ideas spark your interest and get you inspired to create the tree you’ve always envisioned in your little place you call HOME.

God Bless,

Melissa

I’ve always believed that design is a lot like getting dressed in the morning.  The more layers, the more flexibility you have in your design.  And typically, ladies, you’ll throw on that last-minute item that tends to “make the look.”  It may be as timeless as your wedding ring, a gorgeous necklace you snagged off of a great sale or a classic watch layered with bangles.  No matter what that is to you, it’s special in its own right and tends to bring your wardrobe to your life.  And whether you realize it or not it tells a little story about who you are to the world.

To me, in the home, a lighting fixture is like the jewel of a day’s wardrobe.  You can take the simplest of spaces and completely transform it by changing the light fixture.  So what do you do at Christmas time; simply add greenery.  Here are just a few spaces I would love to share with you, transformed for the holiday season.

 

Our Back Mudroom

 

A Closer Look for Contrast

Our Dining Room Orb

A Mirror To Reflect the Greenery

Wreaths Made for Simply More Than A Door

The Layering Effect

The beautiful thing about this design element is that it is kid friendly.  The greens are high enough that little hands won’t get their fingers on them.  I’m learning how important this is these days. 😉  I know, check back with me next year and I can guarantee these glass place settings won’t make it for more than an hour!  But, I firmly believe in maximizing every season of life and this is one of them.  Life is made to enjoy; so don’t wait for tomorrow.  Because all you are guaranteed is today with the ones you love.

Now, this post wouldn’t be complete without a friendly tip from my very own local, handsome, fireman husband.  Parents, be sure to check the watt of your bulb before you put live greenery near lighting for an extended period of time.  Most lights are 25 – 40 watts.  With that being said, you should be fine.  But, please beware.  These particular greens are from Pottery Barn and are not the real deal.  However, a beautiful trick is to mix the two textures to create a fuller, even more vibrant effect.  Go to your local Christmas Tree dealer and I’m sure they’ll sell or even give you a few loose broken branches to use in your very own home.  But don’t forget, if he/she gives it to you for free… You must pass it on.  Maybe a warm Starbuck’s Hot Chocolate would be the perfect, thoughtful touch?  Because that’s what it’s really about.  Being a blessing to all those you meet.  Merry Christmas, friends! Enjoy this weekend with your beauties at HOME. 🙂 XO

Stockings mean a little something special at our home.  As a little girl, seeing one filled to the brim on Christmas morning meant that Santa remembered me.  I felt special.  I felt loved.  And most importantly, I felt significant. So, in looking at the stockings that hang in my home today, it brings back those memories of a time where my wants were the only ones that mattered; and my hope was full in a red sock filled with gummy bears.  I’m sure you may have felt the same without even being aware; even though those days may seem like a lifetime ago. 

Let me just say, the beautiful thing about being a parent is that we get to bring that dream come alive in our children.  The first thing that I did on Christmas morning as a little girl was run down my stairs full of joy, hope and anticipation that Santa had filled my stocking with what I had asked for on my list.  And every year he did, I felt like I had mattered.  What did this really mean?  I was a kid that was a big dreamer who chose to believe in this Christmas fairytale until the 6th grade.  I know what you’re thinking…. The question is, what do I want for my children?  I want Kennedy to believe in the “magic” of the season; but I also want her to understand the reason for the season.  To our family, it’s to give thanks… In all circumstances.  Not to just have hope in a big man in a red suit whom enters your home through forced entry.  But first and foremost, for her to put her hope in Jesus.  That’s why I’ve designed this part of my home to reflect both.  Below you’ll see exactly what I’ve created to make this space come to life.

 

 

As you may know from my previous posts, I am all about layering in my designs.  Not only in textures but also as it relates to the meaning one space has in your home.  The first thing I had to do was think outside the box.  Stockings don’t necessarily have to be hung over a fireplace.  In this case, I’ve chosen to hang them on a wall of shiplap that serves as high wainscoting.  And, do you see that shiplap wall?  I actually decided to layer that in two colors of paint (paris grey & old white).  Then, I sanded these gorgeous boards down to see the beautiful woodgrain and reveal it’s natural beauty in a raw state.  Next, I hung our stockings with care; all to be paired next to a sign that gives meaning to the space.  This truly is the anthem for our home – giving, not just recieving.  And last but certainly not least, do you see that mango wood dish on the right end of the table? This is the bowl that for every day in November, our family can write one thing they’re thankful for.  It may seem cliche.  But my hope is to fill our home with positive thoughts and love that will fill their little hearts with happiness and joy that will lead them with a lifetime of memories.

My hope is that you’ll see I’m truly passionate about leading a purpose filled life.  And I hope by allowing these posts to pour into you, you’ll lead more of an intentional life as well.  Now more than ever, it’s important to focus on what is good in the world.  As Ghandi once said, “Be the Change in the World That You Wish to See.”  I couldn’t agree more.  It is my belief that Jesus came into this world to change the world; and for everyday that I’m alive, I hope to be just that.  Not talk about change… Be The Change.  My prayer is that you may answer His calling for your life wherever you may be.  And, that you may take a few ideas from this heartfelt inspiration above and implement them into the very place you call HOME.

Merry Christmas Friends,

Melissa

Chalk painting is one of my favorite things to do because it is so easy and you can create simple, beautiful pieces in your home.  And the best part, there’s no prepping.  That means, no sanding and no priming – just wipe your surface clean and you can begin. Below are a few projects you can do with your kids and create a little “festive” flair in your home.  This is what I like to call, Chalk Painted Christmas Tags.  And, all you need are a little inspiration and the two items listed below:

 Wooden Tags from Michael’s

Annie Sloan Chalk Paint in Graphite

These two guys together can create endless possibilities in your home.  And since pictures are worth 1,000 words, I’m going to give you a lot to work with today. 😉

Moscow Muletide Holiday Drink Tags

 

Detox H2O Beverage Tag for the Day After

Baby Shower Drink Tag for Mama To Be

Holiday Dinner Tags for Sweet Layla

Bath Soap “Clean” Holiday Tag

These tags are so simple and create something a little special in your home.  So many gifts this Holiday Season seem to be monogrammed or personalized today.  This is just another creative way I discovered to achieve this look.  One picture I have yet to include is a tag on a wrapped gift.  This is how this idea began and since then, I’ve simply maximized it’s use in my home.  Whoever said they didn’t like a gift with their name on it? No one! Do this today and it’s sure to create a little noise at your next party. 😉

Happy Sunday all! I hope you’re enjoying a little downtime on this special day at HOME. ❤

There is literally one month out of the year that I get excited to check the mail.  The other eleven months I can guarantee my mailbox will be filled with neighborhood flyers, bills and love letters from Restoration Hardware, Pottery Barn and DSW telling me how much they’ve missed me over the past six billing cycles.  It’s at that moment it’s revealed to me how they have this target marketing thing down to a science.  And, how thankful I am that I have found greater joy these days in the intangible.

So, with this being the one month that your friends and family are wishing you peace, tidings and joy we must find a way to showcase these salutations.  Up until this last year, I was guilty as charged with hanging my Christmas cards on a door with magic tape.  And before that, I stalked out all of my “free” marketing magnets from Dr’s offices and hung our very favorites on the fridge for all to see.  The other idea I witness every year, is hanging them on your family Christmas tree. Don’t get me wrong, these are all great ideas. Because, at the end of the day these cards have pictures of those that you love wishing you all the best in the New Year to come.  And that my friends, is what it’s all about. But what if we could achieve that while making a statement and creating a floating, masterfully created piece of art.  My solution, a Christmas Card Tree.   Let me share mine with you. 

 

It starts with two things…  A wintery tree for you & me.

 

 

Drapery rings to hang the bling…

 

 

 

And together, they’ll find beauty for all to see…. 

 

 

Use your creativity and hang each card at different levels, heights and variations.  You can use as many or as little rings as you’d like.  I believe I have close to forty on this tree. I hope you find this little piece of Christmas inspiring enough to create in your own home.  Merry Christmas friends!  And remember, if you’ve ever near, you’re always welcome HOME. God Bless ❤

 

I can’t believe it’s already December! I swore when I began this creative journey I would not give up… I wouldn’t go for more than two weeks without posting.  That was my goal. My goal now is to only put out work that people, friends like you, would want to read.  And that’s creating quality pieces that deliver inspiration to the world around us.  I call it selective writing another friend calls it obedience.  Either way, I’ll take it. 😉

 In this month of December, I’m excited to share that I will be embarking on a new journey.  I am going to share 12 of my favorite “festive” holiday design ideas with you.  These are the things that I’ve created in our home to help rekindle the Christmas spirit within us.  It is my hope that you may use one; or if I hit a home run, two ideas, in your own home.  So here it goes….  I’m signing myself up willingly for intentional accountability.  This month I will be embarking on a project called, The 10 Designs of Christmas: A Holiday Series.  I hope you will join me for more!

Now, because we’re officially accountability partners, I should share a little something with you. Confession: It was my full intention to start this project yesterday. But, let’s be completely honest… Well, let me ask you: Do you know what yesterday was? It was that magical shop-holiday that one marketing genius across America created just for those that fall prey to a fantastic deal. Yes, Cyber Monday! And sadly, their prey… Muah.  Every time I planted myself in front of the computer, mysteriously and uncontrollably my fingers began to type “Cyber Monday Deals USA Today” in my google search engine.  You can check my cookies. I’m not even kidding.  Please pray for me… I clearly have problems.

Okay, so now that the slate is clean, let’s kick this design series off right. Do you remember that old door that I found downtown at a salvage yard? This summer I posted a picture of it and it looked a little like this…

 

 

And now, it looks a little like this…

 

 

What I love most about it is that there’s a story behind this door.  We’ll never know the story but we sure can dream of how it was once used.  That’s the beautiful thing about marrying the old with the new.  It creates an architectural interest that cannot be replicated.  And not to worry, for all of those moms that think this isn’t kid friendly, my husband, God love him, attached a coiled wire that is attached to a bolt that is drilled into a stud.  This door isn’t going anywhere!

A few final points worth sharing:  I love the look of whimsical berries next to something that’s so structurally strong.  This creates visual interest and suggests that opposites DO attract.  Which would be evidence as to how I ended up with a man who could wear the same FD shirt every day of his life.  Another point worth noting, the weight along with the layer upon layer of the berries makes this space look rich and heavy; which, balances out the strong solid structure of the door that sits next to it.  Together, they’re a perfect pair.  But alone, it’s just another boring vase with berries on a random stand and a big ol’ wooden door.  And finally, the sign next to the door states the heart of our home, ‘Do Something Small with Great Love.’  Because that’s what we’re called to do.  Remember, of all things LOVE is the greatest and most powerful thing in the world.  So love someone today that’s hard to love.  And, do something small for the least of these.  Because at the end of the day, our children will become what they see.  And you my friend, are the most powerful demonstration of Love that God could ever bring into their little world.

Welcome Home. ❤